Inkless paw print kits

An inkless kit gives you a clean black paw print with nothing to wash off afterwards. It is the easiest way to get a good print from a wriggly dog or a cat who won't sit still.

How an inkless kit works

Each kit comes with a clear wipe and a coated card. Press the paw onto the wipe, then onto the card, and the print develops in black within a few seconds. The solution on the wipe is colourless, so the paw stays clean. No ink on the floor, no washing paws in the sink.

Getting a good print first time

  1. Pick a calm moment, after a walk or a meal, when your pet is sleepy.
  2. Trim long fur between the pads so it doesn't blur the edges.
  3. Press the paw on the wipe for a couple of seconds.
  4. Hold the card on a hard, flat surface and press the paw straight down. Don't roll it.
  5. Lift straight up and wait for the print to appear.

Dogs and cats need different sizes

A large dog's paw can be wider than a standard card, while a cat's print is small and easy to smudge. Look for a large-breed kit for big dogs, and for cats, press gently with the paw slightly spread so each toe pad shows.

Turn the card into something lasting

Take a clear photo of the card in daylight, then upload it to the paw print tool. It traces the print into clean line art you can frame, engrave on a pendant, or take to a tattoo artist. Your photo never leaves your device.

Want a print you can hold? Our guide to clay paw print kits covers the raised, keepable kind.

Inkless kits we would pick

Inkless paw print kit

Clear wipe plus coated cards. Nothing touches the paw but the wipe, and the print appears in seconds.

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Inkless kit with frame

The same no-mess method, with a frame and mat sized for the card so it is ready to hang.

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Questions

How does an inkless paw print kit work?

The kit has a clear wipe soaked in a colourless solution and a chemically coated card. You press the paw on the wipe, then on the card, and the print appears in black within a few seconds. Nothing stays on the paw.

Is it safe for dogs and cats?

Kits made for pets use a non-toxic solution, and nothing visible is left on the paw. Check the packaging says pet-safe, and give the paw a quick wipe with a damp cloth afterwards if your pet tends to lick.

Do inkless prints fade?

They can fade slowly in strong sunlight. Frame the card out of direct sun, or take a clear photo of it straight away so you always have a copy to print or turn into line art.

How many tries will I get?

Most kits include two to four cards. The first print is often a practice run, so a kit with spare cards is worth it, especially for a wriggly puppy or a cat who would rather be elsewhere.

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